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Retinal detachment with single break, right eye
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Retinal detachment with single break, right eye
- Medical term: Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Summary
- Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. This specific condition involves a single tear or break, affecting only the right eye. If not treated promptly, it can lead to vision loss.
Causes
- Retinal detachment is often caused by age-related changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye, leading to a tear or hole in the retina. Trauma or injury to the eye can also cause such detachment.
Risk Factors
- Increased age, previous eye surgeries, eye trauma, severe myopia (nearsightedness), family history of retinal detachment, and conditions like lattice degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms
- Sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, blurred or decreased vision, a shadow or curtain over part of the vision field in the right eye.
Diagnosis
- Ophthalmoscopy: A doctor examines the retina using an ophthalmoscope.
- Ultrasound Imaging: Used if blood or debris in the vitreous prevents a clear view of the retina.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: Provides a magnified view of the retina.
Treatment Options
- Laser Surgery (Photocoagulation): Seals retinal tears.
- Cryopexy (Freezing Therapy): Creates a scar that helps reattach the retina.
- Scleral Buckle Surgery: Indents the wall of the eye, relieving pressure on the retina.
- Vitrectomy: Removal of the vitreous gel and replacement with a gas or oil to push the retina back into place.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With prompt treatment, the prognosis is generally good, but success rates depend on factors like the duration and extent of detachment. Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring eye health and preventing recurrence.
Complications
- If untreated, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness in the affected eye.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular eye exams, especially for high-risk individuals, using protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye trauma, and managing underlying conditions like high myopia or diabetes.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms like flashes, sudden floaters, or a shadow in the vision field, as retinal detachment is a medical emergency.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the laterality is correctly coded; the condition specified involves the right eye.
- Double-check for the presence of "single break" to select the appropriate code.
- Avoid miscoding by distinguishing between different types of retinal detachment.